What is it? Chamomile comes from the dried daisy-like flowers of two different plants, the Maticaria recutita plant, also known as German chamomile, and the Chamaemelum nobile plant or Roman chamomile. German chamomile is a bit more popular in skincare products, but both species have been used to treat similar conditions for centuries.

The ancient Egyptians, Romans and Greeks used chamomile for a wide variety of disorders. In 1921, the German company Chemiewerke Homburg introduced chamomile as a topical treatment for various skin concerns and conditions, including eczema, poison ivy, bedsores and even inflammation from radiation therapy.

Research on animals has shown chamomile reduces inflammation, probably because it contains the oils bisabolol and azulene, which offer significant anti-inflammatory benefits. "Test tube studies have also shown that chamomile has antibacterial, antifungal and antiviral properties," according to the University of Maryland Medical Center.

Studies in humans have shown iffy efficacy. One study found chamomile cream was 60 percent as effective as 0.25 percent hydrocortisone cream, whereas according to another study, both hydrocortisone cream and witch hazel were more effective than chamomile in reducing inflammation.

Chamomile — in cleansers, soap and moisturizers — might help people prone to rosacea by calming their skin, according to Prevention magazine.

After reviewing the evidence, Medline Plus — a site operated by the National Library of Medicine and National Institutes of Health — concluded chamomile's efficacy for treating skin inflammation and eczema is unclear, so more human studies are needed to explore its role in skincare; on the other hand, some experts extol chamomile for its anti-inflammatory and soothing abilities.

You'll find it in: Because of its anti-inflammatory properties and ability to fight infections, chamomile extract is added to many creams and lotions to relieve burns, rashes, sores and eye inflammation. You'll also find it accompanying emollients and moisturizers in night creams that restore and hydrate the skin as well as in acne cleansers and treatments for wrinkles and fine lines. Additionally, chamomile is even used in shampoos and natural hair coloring for blondes.

Our product picks: To achieve smoother, softer skin, try Peter Thomas Roth Chamomile Cleansing Lotion, an excellent cleanser for all skin types. Also, check out The Art Of Shaving Eye Gel - Blue Chamomile; with ingredients like chamomile, horse chestnut extract , red marine algae and olive and jojoba oils, this product reduces eye inflammation, treats dark under-eye circles, hydrates and restores the skin's elasticity.

What to expect: When using a chamomile product, you might notice a decrease in irritation and inflammation, making for calmer, clearer skin. Reader's Digest suggests buying skincare products with at least 3 percent chamomile. Before using any new product, always do a patch test to make sure you don't experience any adverse reactions.

Who should avoid it: Chamomile products contain pollen, so those allergic should refrain from using anything with the ingredient. In particular, if you're allergic to ragweed, aster, chrysanthemum or any other plant in the Asteraceae family, you should avoid chamomile.

While it isn't certain that chamomile affects pregnancy or lactation — some claim that it does — it's important to talk with your doctor before using any skincare product.

See also:

Shea Butter

Essential Oils for Clearing up Acne

Aromatherapy, Holistic Treatments and Home Care